Edison Bell Electron Portable Gramophone EB361

[epigramophone]

I can only speak for the EB345 but it is a fantastic playing machine and simply exudes quality. The earlier soundboxes are indeed much better and I wonder if the 345 was the flagship model, given that this model was available as gold plated option identical to the example Roger sold shown above?

The EB345 in Blue "Durex" lizard grained cloth cost £6 in 1930/31, and the EB345G in maroon with gold lacquered fittings cost £7. These appear to have been the most expensive portables in the EB range, so yes they were the flagship models.

[phyi9530]

Your EB361 has the later tonearm made of brass or steel tubing. The earlier tonearm of the EB345 is diecast pot metal which degrades over time. A particular weak point is where it joins the horn beneath the motor board.

Edison Bell was acquired by Decca in 1933. All EB recording ceased, but some titles were released until about 1935. I have not been able to discover whether EB machines continued to be produced after 1933, but your EB361 is certainly a late example.

I see. Thank you Epigramophone for the replies. Hopefully one day any extra information may be discovered.